LONDON (Reuters) – British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Tuesday that Russia should not be allowed to host football events such as the Champions League final, after Russian President Vladimir Putin recognized two separate regions in eastern Ukraine.
The UK said it would discuss the location of the Champions League final, scheduled for May in St Petersburg, with relevant bodies.
Asked if he would push for the tournament final to be moved, Johnson told lawmakers: “I find it inconceivable that major international football tournaments can be held in Russia after … the invasion of a sovereign country.”
Nadine Doris, Britain’s sports minister, said the UK would raise the issue with the football authorities.
“I have serious concerns about upcoming sporting events in Russia, such as the Champions League final, and will discuss the matter with the relevant bodies,” Doris said in a tweet.
“We will not allow President Putin to use events on the world stage to legitimize his illegal invasion of Ukraine.”
(Reporting by Kylie McClellan)
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